Mystery with a twist

The Coolum Theatre Players kicks off its performance calendar with Murder’s in the Heir, a fun, fast-paced murder mystery, and audiences will be a huge part of the action.

Director Michael Healy has put together a fabulous cast of 14 Sunshine Coast actors who will bring this interactive show to life when they take to the stage at the Coolum Civic Centre in Park Street.

The plot is tantalising. Tyrannical billionaire Simon Starkweather gathers his family and employees to announce the contents of his will, but then his lawyer delivers a bombshell – within hours this will becomes invalid. Of course, the rejected heirs are not pleased and soon afterwards, a murder takes place.

Almost every character in this hilarious mystery has the weapon, opportunity and motive. However, here’s the twist – it’s up to the audience to decide who actually did it.

“The fun part about this play is that every show could be different,” Mr Healy says. “After act one, the audience will be asked to cast a vote on who they think the murderer is, and based on the highest vote, the cast will then play out that outcome.”

The challenge for the players is that they need to be on their toes and be prepared for a different decision at each show.

Murder is in the Heir is on March 22 to 24 and 29 to 31 with four evening shows and two matinees. Seating is arranged as tables of eight, and audience members are invited to bring their own drinks and snacks.

You can buy individual tickets or a whole table by visiting North Shore Realty in Coolum, calling 5446 2500, or visiting coolumtheatre.com.au.